Driver CPC in Ireland – Complete Guide for Truck & Bus Drivers

If you want to become a professional truck or bus driver in Ireland, you need to complete the Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence). Below, you’ll find everything you need to know: when it’s required, how to apply, what exams to take, and what exceptions apply.

πŸ›‘ Do I Need CPC?

You must complete Driver CPC if you:

  • Want to drive professionally (C, CE, D, or DE)
  • Are under 21 applying for C/CE
  • Are under 24 applying for D/DE

Even if you don’t intend to work as a professional driver β€” you must still complete CPC if you fall into these age categories.

If you are over 21 (C/CE) or over 24 (D/DE) and do not want to drive commercially, you do not need CPC.

βœ… 4 Steps to Get Your Driver CPC in Ireland

Step 1: Pass the Category C or D Theory Test

  • Cost: €72 (or €84 for a combined C & D test)
  • Study the official material
  • Test includes 100 questions (74 correct to pass)

Step 2: Pass the CPC Case Study Exam

  • Cost: €72
  • Includes real-life scenarios (9 for truck, 6 for bus)
  • Exam duration: 2 hours
  • 45 questions, minimum 28 correct to pass
  • Must answer at least 5 per scenario

Step 3: Pass the Driving Test (CPC Step 3)

  • Driving test duration: 90 minutes
  • Cost: €120
  • Conducted on public roads in a truck or bus

Step 4: Pass the CPC Practical Test (CPC Step 4)

  • Duration: 30 minutes
  • Cost: €32
  • Practical skills and safety check
  • Truck hire available for test: €70
  • We provide learning materials for preparation

πŸ“ Booking the CPC Theory Exams

You can book both CPC theory exams:

  • Online: www.theorytest.ie
  • Phone: 1890 606 106
  • Cost: €144 (two exams at €72 each)

πŸ“š Study books available at:
πŸ‘‰ https://dttstore.prometric.com/

πŸš› Booking the Practical CPC Exams

You can book your CPC driving and practical exams:

  • Online: MyRoadSafety
  • Phone: 1890 40 60 40
  • Driving test: €120
  • Practical CPC test: €32

ℹ️ The first 15 minutes of the driving test can be taken in Polish with an interpreter.

πŸ“… Periodic Training (Every 5 Years)

Once you complete your CPC and receive the Driver Qualification Card (DQC), you must:

  • Complete 35 hours of periodic training
  • One module per year: 7 hours per year, over 5 years
  • Deadline for each year is: 10 September

Training is mandatory to keep your CPC valid.

⚠️ Exemptions (Acquired Rights)

You do not need CPC exams if:

  • You got your bus licence before 10 September 2008
  • You got your truck licence before 10 September 2009

This gives you acquired rights β€” but you must still complete periodic training every 5 years.

πŸ§‘β€πŸ« Tips for Success

  • Work with a qualified ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) to prepare for all CPC steps.
  • It’s recommended to take both CPC practical exams on the same day.
  • Ensure your truck or bus is roadworthy and insured before the test.

If you’ve reached the stage of booking practical exams or want help with CPC training, contact us today – we’re here to support you every step of the way.